Fastum Gel contains the active ingredient ketoprofen, which is a type of medicine called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs are used to relieve pain and inflammation.

What is it used for?

  • Local pain and inflammation resulting from soft tissue injuries and acute sprains or strains.

How does it work?

  • Powergel contains the active ingredient ketoprofen, which is a type of medicine called a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID). NSAIDs are used to relieve pain and inflammation.
  • Ketoprofen works by blocking the action of a substance in the body called cyclo-oxygenase (COX). Cyclo-oxygenase is involved in the production of various chemicals in the body, some of which are known as prostaglandins. Prostaglandins are produced by the body in response to injury and certain diseases and conditions, and cause pain, swelling and inflammation.
Ketoprofen blocks the production of these prostaglandins and is therefore effective at reducing inflammation and pain.
  • When ketoprofen is applied to the skin (topical application) it is absorbed through the skin into the underlying tissues, where it reduces pain and inflammation in the local area. The gel should be gently massaged into the skin over the affected area.
  • Use with caution in

    • Severely decreased kidney function.
    • History of ulceration or bleeding in the stomach or intestines.
    • History of asthma or allergic diseases.

    Not to be used in

    • Children under 12 years of age.
    • Broken, irritated, infected or diseased skin, or open wounds.
    • People in whom aspirin or other NSAIDs, eg ibuprofen, cause allergic reactions such as asthma attacks, itchy rash (urticaria), nasal inflammation (rhinitis) or swelling of the lips, tongue and throat (angioedema).

    This medicine should not be used if you are allergic to one or any of its ingredients. Please inform your doctor or pharmacist if you have previously experienced such an allergy.

    If you feel you have experienced an allergic reaction, stop using this medicine and inform your doctor or pharmacist immediately.

    Pregnancy and breastfeeding

    Certain medicines should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding. However, other medicines may be safely used in pregnancy or breastfeeding providing the benefits to the mother outweigh the risks to the unborn baby. Always inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy, before using any medicine.

    • The safety of this medicine for use during pregnancy has not been established. It should be avoided during pregnancy and in particular during the third trimester, unless considered essential by your doctor. Seek medical advice from your doctor.
    • Ketoprofen may pass into breast milk, but in such small quantities that it is unlikely to harm the baby. Seek medical advice from your doctor.

    Side effects

    Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Just because a side effect is stated here does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.

    • Skin reactions such as itching, irritation, redness and rash.
    • Abnormal reaction of the skin to light, usually a rash (photosensitivity).
    • If large amounts of the gel are applied, particularly if used for long periods of time, sufficient medicine may be abosrbed into the bloodstream to have effects on other areas of the body. 

    The side effects listed above may not include all of the side effects reported by the medicine's manufacturer.

    For more information about any other possible risks associated with this medicine, please read the information provided with the medicine or consult your doctor or pharmacist.

    How can this medicine affect other medicines?

    • When it is used on unbroken skin this medicine is unlikely to be absorbed in sufficient amounts to affect other medicines that are being taken by mouth. However, you should tell your doctor or pharmacist what medicines you are already using, including those bought without a prescription and herbal medicines, before using this medicine. Similarly, check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medicines while using this one, to ensure that the combination is safe.

    References:

    http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/aches-and-pains/a6960/powergel-ketoprofen/

    https://www.drugs.com/uk/fastum-gel-leaflet.html